Alfrodull or "glory-of-elves" is a term and common
kenning in
Norse mythology. It is ambiguous, referring both to the rider and to the sun-chariot of Sol and pulled by two horses,
Arvak and
Alsvid. The chariot is pursued by the wolf
Fenrir, known as Skoll in some accounts. According to Norse mythology, prior to the end of the world,
Ragnarok, Sol will give birth to a daughter, the girl will be eaten by the wolf but the daughter will take her place. The name Asphodel is derived from this word.
The following is from Vafthruthnismal:
Óðinn kvað:
- "Hvaðan kemur sól
- á hinn slétta himin,
- þá er þessa hefur Fenrir farið?"
Vafþrúðnir kvað:
- "Eina dóttur
- ber Álfröðull,
- áður hana Fenrir fari.
- Sú skal ríða,
- þá er regin deyja,
- móður brautir mær."
Modern poetic English translation:
Odin spoke:
- "From whence will come the sun
- To span the skies,
- When Fenrir has destroyed the girl?"
Vafthruthnir spoke:
- "A daughter born to Alfrodull,
- Before the Fenris wolf destroys her.
- The girl will ride her mother's paths
- When the gods are slain."
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